TTC Support That Works: Why Folate & Iodine Are Your Fertility Essentials

Trying to conceive (TTC) is an exciting yet complex journey that requires careful attention to your health and well-being. One of the most important factors in preparing your body for pregnancy is ensuring that you’re getting the right nutrients. Proper supplementation can help support reproductive health, regulate ovulation, and create the ideal environment for a developing baby.

To help women on their conception journey, we recommed taking supplements with the combination of Folate 800mcg and Iodine because both are essential nutrients that support fertility and early pregnancy. This is the same combination my partner and I trusted during our TTC journey.

We'll discuss why we chose supplements rich in Folate over Folic Acid and why Iodine is also an essential.

Folic Acid vs. Folate

Folate is the natural form of vitamin B9 found in foods like leafy greens, beans, and liver; while Folic acid is the synthetic form used in supplements and fortified foods (like cereals and bread).

The Absorption Issue

Some women have a genetic variation in a gene called MTHFR (methylenetetrahydrofolate reductase). This gene is responsible for converting folic acid into the active form of B9 that the body can use—5-MTHF (5-methyltetrahydrofolate).

Here's how it works:

Folic acid must go through several steps, including a key conversion by the MTHFR enzyme, to become active 5-MTHF.

If a woman has an MTHFR mutation, especially C677T or A1298C, this process becomes less efficient or impaired, meaning folic acid isn't converted properly, and the body can't use it effectively.

On the other hand:

Folate (especially in the form of methylfolate, the already-active form) bypasses this step. That means everyone, even those with MTHFR mutations, can absorb and use folate/methylfolate.

Why it matters:

Women with MTHFR mutations who rely on folic acid may not get enough usable folate, which is critical during pregnancy to prevent neural tube defects. That’s why some prenatal supplements use methylfolate instead of folic acid—it works for everyone, regardless of genetics.

The Role of Folate in Conception and Pregnancy

Folate, often confused with its synthetic counterpart, folic acid, is a crucial B vitamin that plays a key role in DNA synthesis, cell division, and overall reproductive health. During the TTC phase and early pregnancy, folate is essential for proper fetal neural tube development, reducing the risk of birth defects such as spina bifida.

Doctor’s Best Fully Active Folate 800, 800 mcg, 60 Veggie Caps contains Quatrefolic®, a highly bioavailable and stable form of folate that is easily absorbed by the body. Unlike folic acid, which must be converted into an active form before use, Quatrefolic® is readily available for immediate cellular uptake, making it particularly beneficial for women who have difficulty processing folic acid due to MTHFR gene variations.

Neurotabs: Supporting Brain and Nervous System Health During the TTC Period

While folate is essential for fetal development, a well-rounded supplement regimen should also include support for the nervous system and cognitive function. This is where Neurotabs comes in. Designed to enhance neurological health, Neurotabs provides vital nutrients such as B-complex vitamins, omega fatty acids, and antioxidants that contribute to improved mental clarity, energy levels, and nervous system function.

For women trying to conceive, Neurotabs can help manage stress, regulate hormone balance, and support overall brain health, which is crucial in maintaining a healthy body and mind throughout the TTC journey. Stress is often a major factor in conception struggles, and supporting neurological function can positively impact overall reproductive wellness.

Why This Supplement Combination Works

Pairing Doctor’s Best Fully Active Folate 800 with Neurotabs creates a balanced supplementation approach for women trying to conceive. Here’s how they complement each other

• Folate for reproductive and fetal health: Supports proper neural tube development and overall reproductive function.

• Neurotabs for stress and neurological support: Helps regulate mood, improve cognitive function, and enhance energy levels, which are all critical when preparing for pregnancy.

• Enhanced absorption and bioavailability: Both supplements use high-quality, bioavailable forms of nutrients that the body can easily process and utilise.

When and How to Take These Supplements

Seggested use:

Take 1 capsule of both the Doctor's Best, Fully Active Folate 800 and NeuroTabs daily, preferably between meals, or as recommended by a nutritionally-informed physician.

Before starting any new supplement regimen, it’s always best to consult with a healthcare professional to ensure these options align with your individual health needs.

Supporting your body with the right nutrients is one of the most effective ways to enhance fertility and prepare for a healthy pregnancy. Including Doctor’s Best Fully Active Folate 800 and Neurotabs into your daily meal plan gives you the best possible foundation for conception and early pregnancy.

If you’re on your TTC journey and looking for what has worked for other women, this combination is an excellent choice. You can checkout more details on these supplements below.

If you need help going through any block, talking with a TTC consultant can help! Book a FREE 15 minute virtual consult today!